Gautam Buddha University (GBU) in Greater Noida is set to commemorate World Food Day on October 16, 2024, with a series of impactful events designed to raise awareness about food security and sustainability. The event, hosted by the Department of Food Processing and Technology and the Department of Environmental Science under the University School of Vocational Studies and Applied Sciences, will be held at the International Convention Center on campus, attracting participants from across the Delhi-NCR region.
A diverse lineup of distinguished speakers will headline the event. The Guest of Honor, Prof. S.M. Hadi, Professor Emeritus at the Department of Biochemistry, AMU Aligarh, will present on “Plant Polyphenols as Putative Anticancer Agents.” Dr. Neelu Khurana, Director of Quality Assurance and New Product Development at House of Spices (India), will lead a session focusing on the critical role of the food processing industry.
Special Invitee Mr. Firoz H. Naqvi, Director of the Federation of Sweets & Namkeen Manufacturers, Mumbai, will offer insights on “Nourishing the Future: How Food Processing Can Alleviate Hunger in India”— a talk in accordance with this year’s World Food Day theme. Additionally, Mr. Sanjit Chakraborty, Director of Hapten Biosystems Pvt. Ltd., Mumbai, will speak on “Food Allergies: A Hidden Burden,” an emerging concern within the food industry.
A key feature of the celebration will be an exhibition that showcases innovative products made from food waste, emphasizing sustainability and efforts to reduce food loss. Various companies from the food and allied industries will also present their latest products, highlighting advancements in food technology.
Students from GBU, alongside those from other universities, colleges, and higher secondary schools across the Delhi-NCR region, will actively participate in the event, fostering a collaborative environment for discussions on global food security and sustainable development practices.
World Food Day, observed annually on October 16, honors the establishment of the United Nations’ Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) in 1945. This year’s theme, “Right to Food for a Better Life and a Better Future,” underscores the urgent need to address hunger and malnutrition worldwide.